Adjustable rotary expansion mechanism for frames of an article

ABSTRACT

An expansion mechanism for separating first and second frames of an expandable article. The mechanism includes a rotary element that drives movement of an expansion element along a linear axis.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to expansion mechanisms for selectively positioning first and second article frames relative to one another, and more specifically to expansion mechanisms for baggage items.

Expandable storage articles are known that include configurable storage compartments that are adjustable between a first position having a first capacity for storing items, and one or more second positions having an increased capacity for storing items. The storage compartments may be defined by article shells or frames, each of which define a portion of the storage compartment, and expansion mechanisms are known that interconnect the article frames and space them from one another to increase the storage capacity of the compartment. Improvements in such expansion mechanisms are desirable, for example, in expandable baggage items.

Expandable baggage items are known including luggage and suitcase items, briefcases, duffel bags, backpacks and the like. Expansion mechanisms for such expandable baggage items are disadvantaged in that they tend to be cumbersome and difficult to use for some users. For example, the expansion mechanisms typically must be unlocked, moved to an expanded position, and locked again. Especially for infrequent users of the baggage, unlocking of the mechanisms, extending them to the proper position and locking them in place may be difficult and frustrating. If the mechanisms are not properly unlocked, extended, or locked in place, they are subject to breakage.

Also, it often may be that a user of an expandable baggage items needs more capacity than the baggage provides without the expansion features being utilized, but the user may not need the entire space afforded by the expansion mechanism when it is utilized. This may result in loosely packed items in the baggage and subject the items to breakage. Empty space in the bag may also result in the expansion mechanism being generally unsupported and vulnerable to mechanical shock and impact that may damage the mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, an expansion mechanism for first and second frames of an article is provided. The mechanism comprises a base attachable to the first frame, and an expansion element slidably received in the base along a linear axis. The expansion element attachable to the second frame, and a positioning assembly comprising a rotary element movable relative to the base in a plurality of discrete positions is provided, wherein an angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction extends the expansion element from the base, and an angular displacement of the rotary element in a second direction adjustably moves the expansion element toward the base.

Optionally, the rotary element may comprise a wheel, and the wheel may define a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stops. A pawl may be coupled to the base and may be selectively positionable relative to the rotary element to limit angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction. The pawl may also be configured to permit angular displacement of the rotary element in a second direction. The mechanism may also include a release button, and a pivoting rocker arm releasing the pawl from a locked position. The release button may be movable along the linear axis. The expansion element may comprise a plate, with the plate defining a slot that is engaged by a portion of the rotary element. The rotary element may comprise an outer periphery, with the periphery comprising a plurality of stop surfaces to maintain the expansion element in one of a plurality of different positions relative to the base. The mechanism may include at least one bias element, with the bias element automatically extending the expansion element to a fully extended position.

In another embodiment, an expansion mechanism for first and second frames of an article is provided. The mechanism comprises a base attachable to the first frame, and an expansion plate slidably received in the base. The expansion plate may be attachable to the second frame, and a positioning assembly may comprise a rotating wheel configured to turn relative to the base. The wheel comprises a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stop positions, wherein an angular position of the wheel determines an amount of extension of the expansion plate from the base.

Optionally, the wheel may be asymmetrical. A pawl may be coupled to the base and selectively engageable with the wheel to limit rotation of the wheel in a first direction. The mechanism may include a release button, and a pivoting rocker arm releasing the pawl from a locked position. The release button may be movable along the linear axis. The plate may define a slot, and a portion of the wheel is engaged to the slot. At least one bias element may also be provided, with the bias element automatically extending the wheel to a fully opened position. The wheel may include an outer periphery configured to restrain the wheel from turning in a first direction, but permitting turning of the wheel in a second direction.

In another embodiment, an expansion mechanism for an expandable piece of baggage is provided. The mechanism comprise a base fixedly mounted to a first portion of the baggage and an expansion plate fixed mounted to a second portion of the baggage. The expansion plate is extendable from the base along a linear axis, and a positioning assembly comprises a rotary wheel selectively positionable relative to the base. The wheel comprises a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stop positions, and a pawl is configured to selectively engage the ratchet surface. A rocker arm is provided to selectively position the pawl.

Optionally, the wheel may be asymmetrical, and the plate may define an actuation slot, with a portion of the wheel received in the slot to position the plate relative to the base. At least one bias element may be provided, with the bias element automatically rotating the wheel when the wheel is released. A release button may be provided, with the release button movable along the linear axis.

An embodiment of an expandable baggage item is also disclosed. The baggage item comprises a body defining a storage compartment, with the body including a first frame defining a first portion of the storage compartment, a second frame defining a second portion of the storage compartment, and an expansion gusset coupled to the first and second frames. The expansion gusset defines a third portion of the storage compartment when the body is expanded. An expansion mechanism comprises a base attachable mounted to the first frame and a slidable expansion element received in the base. The expansion element is mounted to the second frame, with the expansion element linearly movable relative to the base. A positioning assembly is coupled to the base and to the expansion element, wherein the positioning assembly is configured to automatically position the expansion element from a fully closed position to a fully opened position. The positioning assembly is configured to be manually adjustable to at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position, and the positioning assembly comprises a rotary element selectively positionable relative to the base in a plurality of discrete positions. An angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction moves the expansion element from the closed position to the fully opened position, and an angular displacement of the rotary element in a second direction moves the expansion mechanism to the at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position.

Optionally, the rotary element comprises a wheel, with the wheel defining a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stops. A pawl may be coupled to the base and may be selectively positionable relative to the rotary element to limit angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction. A release button, and a pivoting rocker arm releasing the rotary element from a locked position may be provided. The expansion element may comprise a plate, with the plate defining a slot that is engaged by a portion of the rotary element. The rotary element may comprise an outer periphery, with the outer periphery comprising a plurality of stop surfaces to maintain the expansion element in a plurality of different positions relative to the base. At least one bias element may be provided, with the bias element automatically extending the expansion element to a fully opened position. A release button may be provided, the release button movable along the linear axis.

Another embodiment of an expandable baggage item is also disclosed. The item comprises: a body defining a storage compartment. The body includes a first frame defining a first portion of the storage compartment, a second frame defining a second portion of the storage compartment, and an expansion gusset coupled to the first and second frames, with the expansion gusset defining a third portion of the storage compartment when the first and second frame are separated. An expansion mechanism comprises a base attachable mounted to the first frame, and a slidable expansion element received in the base. The expansion element is mounted to the second frame, with the expansion element linearly movable relative to the base. A positioning assembly is coupled to the base and to the expansion element, wherein the positioning assembly is configured to automatically position the expansion element from a fully closed position to a fully opened position and separate the first and second frames by a maximum amount. The positioning assembly is configured to be manually adjustable to at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position. The positioning assembly comprises a rotary element configured to turn relative to the base in a first direction and a second direction opposing the first direction, wherein the rotary element is positionable in a plurality of discrete positions. A pawl is configured to retain the rotary element in one of the plurality of discrete positions. An angular displacement of the rotary element turning in the first direction moves the expansion element from the closed position toward the fully opened position, and an angular displacement of the rotary element turning in the second direction moves the expansion mechanism to at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position. The pawl prevents turning of the rotary element in the first position, and permits turning of the rotary element in the second direction.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is perspective view of an expandable article including an expansion mechanism formed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention and in a first configuration for a normal storage capacity.

FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 but illustrating the expansion mechanism in a second position for an expanded storage capacity in the article.

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the expansion mechanism shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the expansion mechanism shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the expansion mechanism shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is another front elevational view of the expansion mechanism with further parts removed.

FIG. 7 is the view of FIG. 6 with still further parts removed.

FIG. 8 is a rear elevational view of the positioning assembly shown in FIG. 8 in a first, normally closed position.

FIG. 9 is a rear elevational view of the assembly shown in FIG. 8 in a released position.

FIG. 10 illustrates the assembly of FIG. 9 in a second, fully expanded position.

FIG. 11 illustrates the assembly of FIG. 9 in a third, intermediate position.

FIG. 12 is a rear elevational view of the expansion mechanism with parts removed.

FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the expansion mechanism with further parts removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is perspective view of an expandable article 100 including an expansion mechanism 102 formed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

In the illustrated embodiment, the article 100 is a piece of baggage formed into a generally rectangular body 104 defining a compartment 106 therein for packing of clothing and personal items, for example, of a traveler. The baggage may be, for example, a luggage or suitcase item in an exemplary embodiment. While one particular type of luggage item is illustrated, it is appreciated that other types of luggage and baggage items may benefit from the expansion mechanism 102 of the invention, as well as non-luggage or non-baggage articles in which expandability is desirable. That is, the expansion mechanism 102 may be utilized on other articles of varying size, shape, and purpose as desired, and the article 100 is described and illustrated for the purpose of illustration rather than limitation.

In an exemplary embodiment, the body 106 is defined by a first shell or frame 108 that defines first portion of the body 104, and a second shell or frame 110 defining a second portion of the body 104. Each of the frames 108 and 110 may be fabricated from rigid or semi-rigid materials such as plastic and the like, and the frames 108 and 110 structurally provide the shape and strength of the article 100 for carrying items. The frames 108 and 110 may be covered with fabric panels and the like including pockets, straps, and other features common to luggage and baggage items.

The first frame 108 in part defines a first volume of storage capacity in the compartment 106, and the second frame 110 defines a second volume of storage capacity immediately adjacent the first frame 108. The first and second volumes of storage in the first and second frames 108 and 110 cumulatively define a normal storage capacity of the article 100. Each of the frames 108 and 110 may be generally rectangular in shape with side walls and end walls defining the respective volumes of storage capacity therebetween in the respective frames 108 and 110. As shown in FIG. 1, an upper edge 112 of the first frame 108 and a lower edge 114 of the second frame 110 generally abut one another so that the storage capacity of the compartment 106 is generally minimized in the normal storage position shown in FIG. 1, which is also sometimes referred to as a collapsed position.

The expansion mechanism 102 includes a base 116 attached to the first frame 108, and an expansion element 118 slidably received in the base 116. The expansion element 118 is attached to the second frame 110, so that when the expansion element 118 is moved relative to the base 116, the second frame 110 is moved relative to the first frame 108. As shown in FIG. 2, the expansion element 118 is selectively positionable relative to the base 116 so as to separate the first frame 110 from the second frame 108 by a distance De. In other words, the respective edges 112 and 114 of the frames 108 and 110 are separated from one another by the distance De to position the article 100 in an expanded position. A flexible expansion gusset material 120 connecting the frames 108 and 110 occupies the space between the frames 108 and 110 in the expanded position. As shown in FIG. 2, the expansion gusset material 120 defines a third volume of storage capacity intermediate the first frame 108 and the second frame 110. In the expanded position, the storage capacity of the compartment 106 in the article 100 is equal to the sum of the storage capacity volume of the first frame 108, the storage capacity volume defined by the gusset material 120 in the space D_(e), and the storage capacity volume of the second frame 108.

In an exemplary embodiment, and while only one expansion mechanism is visible in FIG. 1, two expansion elements 102 may be provided in the article 100 and may be arranged in a pair opposing one another, thus supporting the article frames 108 and 110 on each side for enhanced structural strength and stability. It is recognized, however, that greater or fewer numbers of expansion mechanisms 102 may be used in the article 100 or in another article within the scope of the invention.

As will be explained in detail below, each expansion mechanism 102 includes a positioning assembly that allows adjustment of the distance D_(e) between the article frames 108 and 110 between the collapsed position for normal storage capacity shown in FIG. 1, and an expanded position shown in FIG. 2 for an increased storage capacity. That is, by virtue of the positioning assembly in the expansion mechanism 102, a user may select a distance D_(e) that is less than a maximum distance when the article 100 is fully expanded. As such, the article 100 may be fully expanded for packing purposes, and then retracted if necessary to reduce the expansion of the article to eliminate empty space within the article 100 after packing. Thus, when the entire storage capacity of the fully expanded bag is not needed, the user may adjust the expansion mechanism accordingly to use only the approximate amount actually occupied by the packed items in the bag.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the article 100 may be provided with one or more carrying handles 122 and 124 on the exterior of the article 100 for the convenience of the user when lifting the article 100. Wheels and a towing handle, familiar to those in the luggage art, may also be provided on the article 100 for the user's convenience in towing the article along a supporting surface, such as the ground. Known straps, tie downs, pockets and other features may likewise be utilized in the compartment 106 to secure items in the compartment. A panel 126 may be hingedly attached to the body 104, for example, and a closure element such as a zipper 128 may be provided to close the panel 126 over the compartment 106 and seal the compartment 106 for travel. Still other features known in the luggage and baggage art may likewise be provided in various embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the expansion mechanism 102 illustrating the article frames 108 and 110 in phantom. The base 116 includes a front plate 130 and a rear plate 140 shown (shown in FIG. 4 and described below. The base 116 is mounted to the first frame 108 via fasteners 131 to mechanically connect and fix the base 116 to the first frame 108. The expansion element 118 is likewise mounted to the second frame 110 via fasteners 132 to mechanically connect and fix the expansion element 118 to the second frame 110. The expansion element 118 is slidably movable within the base 116 along a linear axis, indicated by the arrow A, relative to the base 116 to separate the frame 110 from the frame 108 to expand the article 100. Likewise, the expansion element 118 is movable within the base 116 along the linear axis in the direction of arrow B, opposite to the direction of arrow A, to draw the frame 110 back toward the frame 108 and adjust the amount of expansion of the article. A release button 134 is provided on the movable expansion element 118 to facilitate movement of the expansion element 118 in the direction of arrow A to expand the article 100. As explained below, movement of the expansion element 118 in the direction of arrow B may be accomplished by gently applying a downward pressure on the frame 110 and/or the expansion element 118 to collapse the article 100.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the expansion mechanism 102 illustrating the rear plate 140 of the base 116. The rear plate 140 includes a stepped contour having a first generally flat and planar section 142 and a second generally flat and planar section 144 that is offset from, but generally parallel to, the first section 142. Mounting apertures 146 and 148 are provided in each of the respective sections 144 and 146 of the rear plate 140 for fastening of the rear plate 140 to the frame 108.

The expansion element 118 is captured between the rear plate 140 of the base 116 and the front plate 130 of the base 116, and may slide between the front and rear plates 130 and 140 to extend and retract the expansion mechanism 102. The expansion element 118 includes mounting apertures 150 so that the expansion element 118 may be fastened to the article frame 110. The release button 134 is mechanically coupled to one end of a rocker arm 152 to release the expansion element 118 for movement in the direction of arrow A as explained below.

FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the expansion mechanism 102 with the front plate 130 (FIG. 3) removed. The expansion element 118 includes a cover plate 160 and a collar 162 housing the release button 134 in an upper portion of the element 118. As such, the release button 134 is carried on the movable expansion element 134, and whether the mechanism 102 is in an extended or retracted position to expand or collapse the article 100, the button 134 is accessible at the upper portion of the expansion element 118. Unlike conventional expansion mechanisms, the button 134 is not likely to become obstructed or obscured by items packed in the article 100, making it difficult to actuate the button 134. Rather, the button 134 is, in all operating positions, located near the top of the article 100 where it is clearly accessible for the user.

The cover plate 160 defines an actuation slot 164. A positioning assembly is captured between the cover plate 160 and the rear plate 140 of the base 116, and the positioning assembly, via the actuation slot 164, slidably moves the expansion element 118 relative to the base 116 in the directions of arrows A and B to expand or collapse the article, respectively.

FIG. 6 illustrates the expansion mechanism 102 with the expansion element 118 (FIGS. 1-5) removed to illustrate the positioning assembly 170 that slidably moves the expansion element 118 relative to the base 116. The positioning assembly includes the release button 134, the rocker arm 152, a rotary dial or wheel 172, and a pawl 174.

The release button 134 includes a stem 176 and a post 178 best seen in FIGS. 9 and 10. The post 178 extends in a generally perpendicular manner from the stem 176, and the post 178 engages a slot 180 on one end of the rocker arm 152. An opposite end of the rocker arm 152 includes a pivot point 182, which may include a post or pin, for example, that is captured in a recess in the cover plate 160 (FIG. 5) of the expansion element 118. The pivot point 182 and the pivot connection allows the rocker arm to pivot about the pivot point relative to the cover plate 160 in the direction of arrow C, or alternatively in the opposite direction of arrow D.

The dial or wheel 172 in one embodiment is generally asymmetric and includes an outer periphery provided with a generally circular portion 184, a saw tooth portion 186, and a post 188 that engages the actuator slot 164 (FIG. 5) in the expansion element cover plate 160 (also shown in FIG. 5). The wheel 172 is rotatably mounted to the first section 142 of the rear plate 140 of the base 116 at its radial center, and when the wheel 172 is rotated, turned or spun about its center in the direction of arrow E, the post 188 engages the actuator slot 164 and moves the expansion element 116 away from the base 116 in the direction of arrow A (FIG. 5). Alternatively, when the dial or wheel 172 is turned in the direction of arrow F, opposite to the direction of arrow E, the post 188 engages the actuator slot 164 and moves the expansion element 116 toward the base 116 in the direction of arrow B (FIG. 5).

As shown in FIG. 6, the wheel 172 is provided with a number of weight reduction openings 189 of varying size and shape on its inner portion that are spaced from an outer periphery of the wheel 172. In another embodiment, the weight reduction openings 189 may be omitted or alternatively shaped and arranged on the wheel 172. While a particular shape of the wheel 172 is illustrated, the particular shape and configuration of the exemplary wheel 172 is by no means required. Other shapes and configurations of the wheel may provide similar structure, function, and benefits as described herein, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

The pawl 174 is rotatably mounted to the second portion 144 of the base plate 140 at a pivot point 190, and the pawl 174 includes a post 192 at one end a catch surface 194 at another end. The catch surface 194 engages the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172 and maintains the wheel 172 in one of a plurality of positions within the base 116 that vary the relative position of the wheel post 188 with respect to the actuator slot 164 in the expansion element cover plate 160 (FIG. 5). Accordingly, and depending upon where the pawl catch surface 194 engages the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172, the amount of movement of the expansion element 118 relative to the base 116 may be adjustably maintained. While one exemplary shape and configuration of pawl 172 is illustrated, it is recognized that in other embodiments the pawl may alternatively assume other shapes and be alternatively configured if desired.

The post 192 of the pawl, when contacted by the rocker arm 152 as the release button 134 is depressed, causes the pawl 174 to pivot about the pivot point 190 in the direction of arrow G and causes the pawl catch surface 194 to pivot away from the saw tooth portion 186 and release the wheel 172 for rotation or turning, for example, in the direction of arrow E. When the wheel 172 is so released, it turns in the direction of arrow E. As the wheel 172 turns, the post 188 of the wheel 172 is moved circumferentially with the circular portion 184 of the wheel 172, changing the elevation of the wheel post 188 along the axis A and causing the expansion element 118 to move linearly in the direction of arrow A (FIG. 5).

The wheel 172 is spring loaded in one embodiment and automatically turns in the direction of arrow E when released to moves the post 188 and extend the expansion element 118 in the direction of arrow A to its maximum amount, while simultaneously lifting and separating the article frame 110 from the frame 108 (FIGS. 1 and 2) to the expanded position of the article 100. The spring loaded wheel 172 also capably supports the frame 110 relative to the frame 108 in static equilibrium in the fully expanded position or in an intermediate position as explained below.

To retract the mechanism 102 and collapse the article 100, the automatic movement of the expansion element 118 via the spring loaded wheel 172 biased to turn in the direction of arrow E when released may be counteracted by manually applying downward pressure to the article frame 110 and/or the expansion element 118, moving the expansion element 118 back toward the base 116. Such downward pressure and movement forces the wheel post 188 to move within the actuation slot 164 of the expansion element cover plate 160 and move the expansion element 118 toward the base 116 in the direction of arrow B (FIG. 5). Movement of the post 188 within the slot 164 in the expansion element cover plate 160 also causes the wheel 172 to turn in the direction of arrow F. Rotation of the wheel 172 in the direction of arrow F, permits adjustment in the amount of extension of the expansion element 118 as explained below. Thus, the article 100 may be packed and closed, and by pressing down on the panel 126 (FIGS. 1 and 2) or the frame 110, the amount of expansion of the article 100 may be adjusted without opening of the article 100.

FIG. 7 illustrates the expansion mechanism 102 with the wheel 172 (FIG. 6) and the pawl 174 (FIG. 6) removed. The rear plate 140 of the base 116 includes a wheel pivot recess 200 in the first section 142 for rotational mounting of the wheel 172 (FIG. 6). The recess 200 receives a pin or shaft that serves as an axle for the wheel 172 when the mechanism 102 is assembled. A wheel guide 202 in the form of a rib or flange is also formed in the first section 142 of the plate 140, and the guide 202 cooperates with complementary features of the wheel 172 to maintain the wheel 172 in proper position relative to the plate base plate 140 as the wheel 172 is turned. A bias element 204 such as torsion spring or another bias element may also be provided adjacent the wheel guide 202 to bias the wheel for example, to turn in the direction of arrow E (FIG. 6) when the wheel 172 is released. Alternatively, or in addition to the bias element 204, a bias element 206 such as a torsion spring may be provided proximate the pivot recess 200 to bias the wheel 172 to turn in a predetermined direction.

The pawl 174 is also rotatably mounted to the rear plate 140, via a pivot recess in the second section 144 of the rear plate 140. The pawl 174 may also be biased, such as with a torsion spring or another bias element, to a predetermined position with respect to the wheel 172. For example, the pawl 174 may be biased to pivot in the direction of arrow H, causing the catch surface 194 to engage and latch to the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172.

FIGS. 8-12 illustrate operation of the positioning assembly 170 in an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 shows the positioning assembly 170 is a normally closed position for the normal storage capacity of the article 100 as shown in FIG. 1. The release button 134 is in a first, fully extended position with the stem 176 and post 178 engaging one end the slot 180 in the rocker arm 152. The pawl 174 engages one end of the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172 to lock or latch the wheel in place and limiting or preventing the wheel 172 from turning. The post 188 of the wheel 172 is at a low elevation near the bottom of the wheel 172, placing the actuation slot 164 (FIG. 5) of the expansion element cover plate 160 (FIG. 5) at a low elevation with respect to the base 116 (FIG. 5). By virtue of the normally closed position of the positioning assembly 170, the expansion element 118 is therefore maintained in a relatively close position relative to the base 116. Consequently, the frames 108 and 110 (FIG. 1) that are attached to the base 116 and the expansion element 118 are also maintained proximate one another to provide the normal storage capacity of the article 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates the positioning assembly 170 in a released position so that that the article 100 can be expanded from the normal storage capacity. In the released position, the release button 134 is depressed downwardly relative to the expansion element 118, causing the stem 176 and the post 178 to move downwardly in the rocker arm slot 180. The movement of the post 178 in the rocker arm slot 180 causes the rocker arm to pivot about the pivot point 182 of the rocker arm 152 in the direction of arrow C until the rocker arm 152 engages the post 192 of the pawl 174. At this point, the rocker arm 152 causes the pawl 174 to pivot about its pivot point 190 in the direction of arrow G. The catch surface 194 of the pawl 174, when the pawl 174 is pivoted in the direction of arrow G, is swung upwardly and away from the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172. When the pawl catch surface 194 clears the saw tooth portion 186, the wheel 172 is released and is turned by the bias elements 204 and 206 (FIG. 7) in the direction of arrow E. Turning of the wheel in the direction of arrow E cause the post 188 of the wheel 172 to change position on the periphery of the wheel and increase in elevation, causing the expansion element 118 to move away from the base 116 in the direction of arrow A (FIG. 5) as the post 188 engages the actuation slot 164 of the expansion element cover plate 160 (FIG. 5).

From the released position shown in FIG. 9, the button 134 may be depressed continuously until the wheel post 188 is positioned near the top of the wheel 172 and in a fully elevated position shown in FIG. 10. The wheel post 188 acting upon the actuation slot actuation slot 164 of the expansion element cover plate 160 (FIG. 5) lifts and separates the expansion element 118 from the base 116 (FIG. 5) and accordingly moves the article frames 108 and 110 to their fully separated position shown in FIG. 2 wherein the article is fully expanded to its maximum storage capacity. At this point, the release button 134 may be released by the user, causing the spring loaded pawl 174 to be pivoted in the direction of arrow H about its pivot point 190 until the catch surface 194 engages the other end of the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172 to lock the positioning assembly 170 in place and to maintain the article frames 108 and 110 in their fully separated positions. The rocker arm 152 and the release button 134 may also be biased with springs and the like to return the rocker arm and the button 134 back to their original, fully extended positions shown in FIGS. 8 and 10.

As shown in FIG. 10, the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172 includes a number of stop surfaces 210, and ramp surfaces 212 between the stop surfaces 210. Any of the stop surfaces 210 may be engaged with the catch surface 194 of the pawl 174 to position the wheel 172, and the wheel post 188, in a position intermediate the normally closed and fully open positions shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, which correspond to the normally closed and expanded positions of the article 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The stop surfaces 210 and the ramp surfaces 212 function as a ratcheting surface that permits manual repositioning of the wheel 172 to finely adjust the elevation of the wheel post and reduce the separation of the article frames 108 and 110 and the resultant expansion volume of the article.

The saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172, as best seen in FIG. 5, is fully protected by the cover plate 160 of the expansion element 118, and when the cover plate 160 is captured between the front and rear plates 130 and 140 of the base 116, the wheel 172 is contained in the base 116. Unlike some known expansion mechanisms having a ratcheting surface, any risk of an item, such as a clothing item, becoming snagged on the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172, is substantially avoided because the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172 is never exposed.

From the fully expanded position of the article shown in FIG. 2 with the positioning assembly 170 is in the position shown in FIG. 10, by applying a slight pressure or downward force upon the expansion element 118, without depressing the release button 134, the positioning assembly 170 may be adjusted to retract the element 118 wholly or partially with respect to the base 116. As such, the user need not have physical access to the release button 134 of the mechanism 102 to retract the mechanism and reduce the expansion of the article 100 back toward its collapsed position. The pressure or downward force may be applied directly to the expansion element 118, or indirectly via the article frame 110 attached to the expansion element 118, even when the panel 126 is closed on the frame 110.

A downward pressure applied to the expansion element 118 or the frame 110 will move the expansion element 118 toward the base 116, resulting in the actuation slot 164 of the expansion element cover plate 160 (FIG. 5) applying a force on the wheel post 188 that cause the wheel 172 to turn in the direction of arrow F as shown in FIG. 11. As the wheel 172 is turned in the direction of arrow F, the pawl 174 slides over one or more of the ramps 212 on the wheel until the pressure upon the expansion element 118 or the frame 110 is ceased. When applied force on the expansion element 118 or the frame 110 is released, the bias elements for the wheel 172 apply a bias force in the direction of arrow E, opposite to the direction of arrow F, to hold, lock or latch the nearest stop surface 210 against the catch surface 194 of the pawl 174. When the pawl 174 is engaged to one of the stop surfaces 210 of the wheel 172, the pawl 174 limits or prevents turning of the wheel in the direction of arrow E to prevent further extension of the expansion element 118 and associated expansion of the article 100, while permitting turning of the wheel in the direction of arrow F to retract the expansion element 118 and collapse the article 100.

The wheel 172 may be manually positioned in such a manner with the pawl catch surface 194 engaging any of the stop surfaces 210, with the wheel post 188 being located at a different elevation for each respective stop surface 210 to achieve a different degree of expansion of the article 100. That is, each of the stop surfaces 210 corresponds to a different angular displacement of the wheel 172 about its center pivot point, and accordingly each stop surface 210 places the wheel post 188 in a different angular orientation with respect to the expansion element cover plate 160, varying the vertical elevation of the wheel post 110 relative to the base 116 and changing the vertical position of the expansion element 118 relative to the base 116. The expansion of the article 100 may be incrementally adjusted in decreasing amounts using the stop surfaces 210 until the desired degree of expansion is obtained to avoid undesirable empty space in the article 100. In the illustrated embodiment, eight stop surfaces 210 and eight ramps 212 are provided in the saw tooth portion 186 of the wheel 172, although greater or lesser numbers of stop surfaces and ramps could be provided in other embodiments for a greater or lesser amount of adjustability between the fully closed and fully opened positions.

FIG. 12 is a rear elevational view of the expansion mechanism 102 with the rear plate 140 removed. The wheel post 188 is engaged within the actuation slot 164 of the expansion element cover plate 160 so that as the wheel 172 turns, the expansion element 118 is moved in the direction of arrows A and B, depending on the direction of rotation of the wheel. Guide slots and features may be formed in the front plate 130 to ensure that the expansion element 118 is movable relative to the base 100 only in the direction of arrows A and B as the wheel 172 is turned. The rotary motion of the wheel 172, that drives and displaces the expansion element 118 linearly, provides for a relatively compact, lightweight, and highly reliable expansion mechanism 102. The mechanism 102 is easy to use, and may be readily locked and unlocked to expand and collapse the article 100, without jamming or snagging of the moving parts on packed items within the article 100. The mechanism 102 may also be manufactured in a relatively straightforward manner, and may be provided at comparable or lower cost than other known mechanical expansion systems that lift and separate article frames from one another.

As also shown in FIG. 12, the wheel 172 is locked in place with the pawl 174 to maintain the expansion element in a stationary position relative to the base 116. In FIG. 12, the wheel 172 is locked in an intermediate position between the fully opened and fully closed position, resulting in the wheel post 188 being located in a relatively low elevation in the actuation slot 164 of the expansion element cover plate 160. The low elevation of the wheel post 188 results in a partial extension of the expansion element 118 from the base 116 that positions the article frame 110 to a position wherein less than the maximum storage capacity, but greater than the minimum storage capacity of the article 100, is obtained.

FIG. 13 is view similar to FIG. 12 but with the wheel 172 and the pawl 174 removed. The rocker arm 152 is pivotally connected to the expansion element cover plate at its pivot point 182. Thus, when the expansion element is moved downward in the direction of arrow B, the rocker arm 152 is carried on the expansion element cover plate 160 and also moves in the direction of arrow B with the cover plate 160. In such a manner, actuation of the release button 134 to pivot the rocker arm 152 is required to release the wheel 172 for movement as described above, but actuation of the button 134 is not required to retract the mechanism 102 and collapse the article 100. Thus, the mechanism 102 may be retracted to move the expansion element 118 toward the base 116 independently of the button 134, and consequently the mechanism 102 may be retracted even when the article 100 is closed. That is, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion mechanism 102 may be retracted, but not extended, without using the button 134.

While the invention has been described in terms of various specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the claims. 

1. An expansion mechanism for first and second frames of an article, comprising: a base attachable to the first frame; an expansion element slidably received in the base along a linear axis, the expansion element attachable to the second frame, and a positioning assembly comprising a rotary element movable relative to the base in a plurality of discrete positions, wherein an angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction extends the expansion element from the base, and an angular displacement of the rotary element in a second direction adjustably moves the expansion element toward the base.
 2. The expansion mechanism of claim 1, wherein the rotary element comprises a wheel, the wheel defining a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stops.
 3. The expansion mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a pawl coupled to the base and selectively positionable relative to the rotary element to limit angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction.
 4. The expansion mechanism of claim 3, wherein the pawl is configured to permit angular displacement of the rotary element in a second direction.
 5. The expansion mechanism of claim 3, further comprising a release button, and a pivoting rocker arm releasing the pawl from a locked position.
 6. The expansion mechanism of claim 1, wherein the expansion element comprises a plate, the plate defining a slot that is engaged by a portion of the rotary element.
 7. The expansion mechanism of claim 1, wherein the rotary element comprises an outer periphery, the periphery comprising a plurality of stop surfaces to maintain the expansion element in one of a plurality of different positions relative to the base.
 8. The expansion mechanism of claim 1, further comprising at least one bias element, the bias element automatically extending the expansion element to a fully extended position.
 9. The expansion mechanism of claim 1, wherein the mechanism comprises a release button, the release button movable along the linear axis.
 10. An expansion mechanism for first and second frames of an article, comprising: a base attachable to the first frame; an expansion plate slidably received in the base, the expansion plate attachable to the second frame, and a positioning assembly comprising a rotating wheel configured to turn relative to the base; the wheel comprising a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stop positions; wherein an angular position of the wheel determines an amount of extension of the expansion plate from the base.
 11. The expansion mechanism of claim 10, wherein the wheel is asymmetrical.
 12. The expansion mechanism of claim 10, further comprising a pawl coupled to the base and selectively engageable with the wheel to limit rotation of the wheel in a first direction.
 13. The expansion mechanism of claim 12, further comprising a release button, and a pivoting rocker arm releasing the pawl from a locked position.
 14. The expansion mechanism of claim 10, wherein the plate defining a slot, and a portion of the wheel is engaged to the slot.
 15. The expansion mechanism of claim 10, further comprising at least one bias element, the bias element automatically extending the wheel to a fully opened position.
 16. The expansion mechanism of claim 10, wherein the mechanism comprises a release button, the release button movable along the linear axis.
 17. The expansion mechanism of claim 10, wherein the wheel includes an outer periphery configured to restrain the wheel from turning in a first direction, but permitting turning of the wheel in a second direction.
 18. An expansion mechanism for an expandable piece of baggage, comprising: a base fixedly mounted to a first portion of the baggage; an expansion plate fixed mounted to a second portion of the baggage, the expansion plate extendable from the base along a linear axis; and a positioning assembly comprising: a rotary wheel selectively positionable relative to the base; the wheel comprising a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stop positions; a pawl configured to selectively engage the ratchet surface; and a rocker arm to selectively position the pawl.
 19. The expansion mechanism of claim 18, wherein the wheel is asymmetrical.
 20. The expansion mechanism of claim 18, wherein the plate defines an actuation slot, and a portion of the wheel received in the slot to position the plate relative to the base.
 21. The expansion mechanism of claim 18, further comprising at least one bias element, the bias element automatically rotating the wheel when the wheel is released.
 22. The expansion mechanism of claim 18, wherein the mechanism comprises a release button, the release button movable along the linear axis.
 23. An expandable baggage item comprising: a body defining a storage compartment, the body including a first frame defining a first portion of the storage compartment, a second frame defining a second portion of the storage compartment, and an expansion gusset coupled to the first and second frames, the expansion gusset defining a third portion of the storage compartment when the body is expanded; and an expansion mechanism comprising a base attachable mounted to the first frame; a slidable expansion element received in the base, the expansion element mounted to the second frame, the expansion element linearly movable relative to the base; and a positioning assembly coupled to the base and to the expansion element, wherein the positioning assembly is configured to automatically position the expansion element from a fully closed position to a fully opened position; wherein the positioning assembly is configured to be manually adjustable to at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position; and wherein the positioning assembly comprises a rotary element selectively positionable relative to the base in a plurality of discrete positions, wherein an angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction moves the expansion element from the closed position to the fully opened position, and an angular displacement of the rotary element in a second direction moves the expansion mechanism to the at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position.
 24. The expandable baggage item of claim 23, wherein the rotary element comprises a wheel, the wheel defining a ratchet surface defining a plurality of stops.
 25. The expandable baggage item of claim 23, further comprising a pawl coupled to the base and selectively positionable relative to the rotary element to limit angular displacement of the rotary element in a first direction.
 26. The expandable baggage item of claim 23, further comprising a release button, and a pivoting rocker arm releasing the rotary element from a locked position.
 27. The expandable baggage item of claim 23, wherein the expansion element comprises a plate, the plate defining a slot that is engaged by a portion of the rotary element.
 28. The expandable baggage item of claim 23, wherein the rotary element comprises an outer periphery, the outer periphery comprising a plurality of stop surfaces to maintain the expansion element in a plurality of different positions relative to the base.
 29. The expandable baggage item of claim 23, further comprising at least one bias element, the bias element automatically extending the expansion element to a fully opened position.
 30. The expandable baggage item of claim 23, wherein the mechanism comprises a release button, the release button movable along the linear axis.
 31. An expandable baggage item comprising: a body defining a storage compartment, the body including a first frame defining a first portion of the storage compartment, a second frame defining a second portion of the storage compartment, and an expansion gusset coupled to the first and second frames, the expansion gusset defining a third portion of the storage compartment when the first and second frame are separated; and an expansion mechanism comprising a base attachable mounted to the first frame; a slidable expansion element received in the base, the expansion element mounted to the second frame, the expansion element linearly movable relative to the base; and a positioning assembly coupled to the base and to the expansion element, wherein the positioning assembly is configured to automatically position the expansion element from a fully closed position to a fully opened position and separate the first and second frames by a maximum amount; wherein the positioning assembly is configured to be manually adjustable to at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position; and wherein the positioning assembly comprises: a rotary element configured to turn relative to the base in a first direction and a second direction opposing the first direction, wherein the rotary element is positionable in a plurality of discrete positions; and a pawl configured to retain the rotary element in one of the plurality of discrete positions; wherein an angular displacement of the rotary element turning in the first direction moves the expansion element from the closed position toward the fully opened position, and wherein an angular displacement of the rotary element turning in the second direction moves the expansion mechanism to at least one fixed position intermediate the fully closed position and the fully opened position; and wherein the pawl prevents turning of the rotary element in the first position, and permits turning of the rotary element in the second direction. 